Mac Rebbenack Jr., better known as Dr. John, is back with the liveliest release he has made this century.
With more funk and soul in his little toe than most people have in their entire being, at 71, Dr. John has crossed all the bridges and even slept under some.
Though his last handful of albums have been a tad pedestrian, with a similar-sounding band that suited him – but did not drive him to new heights; his latest release, Locked Down, produced by The Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach, is something to take notice of.
As the great doctor himself has said, he has been complacent while Auerbach – as has been written – has taken him away from that state and pushed him to record this album in a whirlwind 16 days to ensure it feels alive and immediate.
Throughout Locked Down you can hear the production techniques – similar to that of a Keys record, but they are only a layer of sound. The heart and soul of this record is the songs written by the ensemble of musicians gathered to record with the Dr.
“You Lie” is a funky-shaking number with a chanting type vocal, “Eleggua” , a fabulous stew of percussion and vocals.
It is almost world music, but we are not sure what world and that is what this medicine man is known for.
This is one sonic stroll you will enjoy whether it be your first trip with Dr. John or if you are experienced. Get with it.
– Paul Busch
